Primary students get a taste of high school life at Discovery Days

The Academy of Mary Immaculate and Simonds Catholic College have joined forces to host two successful Discovery Days, giving Grade 4 students from local primary schools a firsthand look at secondary school life while strengthening community partnerships across Melbourne’s inner west.

The Academy and Simonds held their events on September 15 and October 27, welcoming students from St Fidelis, St Augustine’s, St Margaret Mary’s, Galilee Regional Catholic, Holy Rosary (Kensington), and Our Lady of the Nativity (Aberfeldie). Each day offered hands-on activities designed to showcase the excitement of high school learning.

Girls explore the Academy

At the Academy of Mary Immaculate, students took part in a creative art class, an energetic performing arts dance session, and what many described as “the best science lesson ever” – an egg drop challenge that delivered laughter and learning in equal measure, even in the rain.

The Academy’s student leaders acted as proud ambassadors, guiding and supporting the younger visitors. Teachers from the participating schools praised their leadership and kindness, noting that all students left “with huge smiles,” eager to share their experiences.

Boys discover Simonds College

Meanwhile, Simonds College hosted Grade 4 boys for a day packed with discovery and teamwork. Science classes encouraged curiosity through hands-on experiments, while Food Technology had students baking pizzas and joining a lively Q&A session in the kitchen.

Physical Education activities included tunnel ball, volleyball with a twist, and table tennis, while a dance session saw the boys quickly master routines and add their own flair.

A partnership supporting transition

The Discovery Days aim to make the leap to high school less daunting by giving students a genuine taste of secondary life and highlighting both schools’ welcoming environments.

In feedback, Holy Rosary Primary School’s Deputy Principal said, “The children had an absolutely wonderful time at your schools and have returned full of excitement, sharing the experiences they had. It’s clear that you made a real impact on them, and we’re so grateful for the care and energy you put into creating such an engaging day.”